Raul targets silverware

Raul believes he can add to his medal collection with Schalke after completing his move from Real Madrid.

The former Spain striker attained legendary status during his many years as a first-team regular at the Bernabeu, with 323 goals in 741 games making him the club's all-time leading scorer. But rather than retire or accept a fringe role within Real's squad, Raul opted to move on and further his career in the Bundesliga, explaining that Schalke were the club who showed the most determination to sign him.

Raul said at his presentation on Wednesday afternoon: "For me, today officially brings an end to my 16 years at Real Madrid. I have come to Schalke because I really wanted to get experience of playing abroad. We want to play for the title in the Bundesliga, in the Champions League it will be more difficult and there we want to get out of the group stages. And in the DFB Pokal (German Cup) we want to go a long way too."

He added "I've known about Schalke's interest for months. There were a lot of offers, but Schalke made the greatest effort to make the transfer happen."

Raul, 33, signed a two-year contract after passing a medical on Wednesday morning, and will wear his regular number seven shirt.

He had an emotional farewell in Madrid on Monday, but is now focusing on his future in Germany with a team that finished runners-up to Bayern Munich in the league last season.

"The Bundesliga has always been interesting, it is one of the strongest European leagues," Raul said. "It will offer attractive football. The crowds are appreciative and the stadiums are full."

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